HD Radio

KSKA plans to deploy a new HD Radio transmitter covering the Anchorage area starting in the fall of 2007, with a “go live” target of the first half of 2008. This new technology offers superior audio quality and can carry a second, independent audio program (basically a second channel).

To listen to the new HD Radio signal, you’ll need new equipment. Currently, HD Radio systems are still a little tough to find and are little pricey compared to traditional FM radios. However, HD Radio has been growing rapidly in the last year or so and prices have started dropping. Some cars even come pre-loaded with HD Radio receivers.

Keep in mind this isn’t like Digital TV — our traditional FM signal isn’t going away — we’re just supplementing FM with HD. (By comparison, traditional analog TV broadcasts will end in February 2009.)

As the HD Radio project takes off, we’ll post engineering updates along the way. And feel free to contact us with any questions you might have.

In the mean time, you can learn more at hdradio.com.

KSKA in HD: You’re going to love the way we sound

In 2002, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved a new way to broadcast radio in the United States. The company that owns the rights to the technology, iBiquity, has branded it HD Radio. For more information, click here.

Project Cost: $300,275. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) funded 80% of the project with a 20% matching grant from the Rasmuson Foundation. KSKA began field work in the fall of 2007.

When will KSKA Broadcast HD Radio?

KSKA expects to begin broadcasting a digital signal by the end of 2007.
Phase I: Analog signal is shut off overnight so KSKA’s new digital transmitter can be temporarily installed at the Frank A. Mengel transmission tower site. Transmitter is set to operate in a low-power analog mode in order to allow KSKA to resume primary service while aging analog transmitters are replaced. KSKA expects to resume full power at the end of September, 2007 once new analog transmitters are installed.
Phase II: Removal of aging 35-watt analog transmitters.
Phase III: Installation of new analog transmitters and retrofit of antennae to accommodate the new HD transmitter.
Phase IV: Digital transmitter is moved to permanent location at the transmission site and set to operate in HD mode. Studio signal is connected via transport mechanism to transmission tower.

What is HD Radio?

HD radio is a free, over-the-air service using new, in-band on-channel digital audio broadcasting technology. It allows stations to improve services by transmitting more information within their current spectrum, radically upgrading their audio quality and allowing for the addition of compelling new wireless data services such as customized and stored audio segments, text and pictures scrolled over the receiver’s display panel. Digital technology also allows stations to subdivide their digital signal in order to provide two or more programs simultaneously. HD radio marks the most significant advancement in radio broadcasting since the introduction of FM stereo more than 40 years ago.

Will I have to buy a new radio to hear KSKA?

Not unless you want to receive KSKA in HD. Unlike television, radio is under no federal mandate to switch to digital technology and there is no deadline to stop analog transmission. KSKA will continue to provide an analog service so consumers aren’t required to participate in the new technology in order to receive FM 91.1. But the potential for exciting new services and improved audio quality might encourage you to try out a digital radio sooner than later.

Will KSKA provide multiple channels with its HD radio service?

Yes. KSKA plans to provide its primary program stream as a digital signal in addition to another program stream as its HD radio service. Multicasting will be phased in, with KSKA first offering its primary service on the digital signal. NPR and other public radio content providers offer a variety of HD radio programming streams including music, talk and other programming. KSKA will work with its Community Advisory Council to determine the best choices for KSKA listeners.

KSKA FM 91.1 is a public service of Alaska Public Telecommunications, Inc. (APTI)
3877 University Dr  |  Anchorage AK 99508  |  907-550-8400  |  Copyright ©2004-2007 APTI